avian
AY-vee-uhn
Avian (adjective) means relating to or characteristic of birds. Example: “The lab is studying an avian flu outbreak among wild ducks.”
adjective
1
Relating to or characteristic of birds.
"The lab is studying an avian flu outbreak among wild ducks."
"Researchers noted several avian species nesting near the lake."
How to use avian
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo do with birds — a more scientific-sounding word than "bird-related."
Common pairings
avian flu
avian species
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Word forms
- Plural
- avians
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The lab is studying an _____ flu outbreak among wild ducks.
Etymology
From Latin avis, "bird," plus the adjective ending -ian.
Synonyms
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bird-like
ornithological
Related words
Rhymes for avian
See all rhymes for avian →Frequently asked questions
What does “avian” mean?
The word “avian” means relating to or characteristic of birds. In plain terms, to do with birds — a more scientific-sounding word than "bird-related.".
How do you pronounce “avian”?
“Avian” is pronounced AY-vee-uhn (/ˈeɪvi.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “avian” in a sentence?
Here is “avian” used in a sentence: “The lab is studying an avian flu outbreak among wild ducks.”
What part of speech is “avian”?
“Avian” is an adjective.
Where does the word “avian” come from?
The word “avian” comes from Latin. From Latin avis, "bird," plus the adjective ending -ian.
Is “avian” a common word?
“Avian” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
